Tributes to John and Florence Bivona

Tributes poured in for John and Florence Bivona, the beloved couple portrayed by many as dedicated to their family and community. Spending most of their 59-year marriage in Mastic Beach, the Bivona retired to Ridge, where they also made their mark as activists and cherished neighbors.

“The Bivonas made a difference in their community, and everybody loved them,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. “John served as the Brookhaven Republican chairman and provided invaluable support throughout my career. l believe l speak for everyone who knew them when l say their memory will always be cherished.”

“We’ve all been touched by this loving couple. They made a profound impact on our community,” said Father John Ryan of St. Jude’s Roman Catholic Church. The Father described how John reached out to him nine years ago when he first came to the parish. “He was right there by my side with a personal touch. They lived a life of faith and will continue on their journey together.”

“They loved me more than you will ever know,” said grandson Riley. “My grandma always told me how happy she was that l grew up so beautifully. If they were here, they would want to say that to everyone.”

“They were a loving, caring couple. It was always a pleasure to see them,” said Carol Calabro of Leisure Village, where the Bivonas retired. “We have 2,300 residents, and l know l speak for all of them when l say John and Florence will be sorely missed,” she said, noting that John had revitalized the village's Republican Club. “They were very active and passionate about bringing this community together.”

“John was right there for me when l started my political career,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano. “His support and knowledge were invaluable. He served as the GOP chairman and never stopped being involved in campaigns and keeping the party strong.”

“For more than 50 years, John Bivona, Florence, and the Bivona Family have been synonymous with the values, ideals, and success of the Brookhaven Town Republican Committee,” said its chairman, Jesse Garcia.

“Even in retirement, John continued to serve the Brookhaven GOP as a Member of the Committee, Executive Board Member Emeritus, and recently revitalized one of the country's most influential Republican clubs, the Leisure Village Republican Club.”

“John was a mainstay in our party; he was one of the elders. He had so much experience that he would share with us when we first got involved,” said Senator Dean Murray, who worked with Bivona on races before he even became a candidate himself. “When I first ran, I needed guidance, and he was the best person to go to in the Tri-Hamlet Area.”

“The Bivona Family have always been and will continue to be warm, loving, community-minded people,” Legislator Jim Mazzarella said. “They are positive examples of what a good neighbor should be.”

“John was very supportive during my entire career,” stated Suffolk Comptroller John Kennedy. “He was a guiding focus and was always there for me, an all-around great guy.” Suffolk Legislator Dominick Thorne added, “His presence and leadership will never be forgotten.”

Son Tom Bivona, who serves as President of the Suffolk Deputy Sheriff’s PBA, said that when anyone visited them, they would always wait at the door and flash the lights as they pulled away. “They would never shut the door until we were gone. Waving goodbye is the last image l have of them.”